Envy vs. Jealousy

The main difference between envy and jealousy is that envy is the emotion of coveting what someone else has, while jealousy is the emotion related to fear that something you have will be taken away by someone else.

Comparison chart

Envy versus Jealousy comparison chart

Envy

Jealousy

Definition

Envy means "to bear a grudge toward someone due to coveting what that person has or enjoys." In a milder sense, it means "the longing for something someone else has without any ill will intended toward that person."

Jealous means "apprehensive or vengeful out of fear of being replaced by someone else." It can also mean "watchful, " "anxiously suspicious, " "zealous, " or "expecting complete devotion." The last is normally applied to God.

Example

I envy her possessions or situation.

I am jealous that you like her over me.

Easy way to remember

Envy is the emotion when you want a possession someone else has.

Jealousy is the emotion when you fear you may be replaced in the affection of someone you love or desire.

What does Jealous God mean?

You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God...

This is an exhortation to only worship the one true God, warning people against worshipping anyone or anything else. It can be argued that this is to protect people from charlatans who claim to be Gods or prophets, or from worshipping rocks, rivers, or the elements. A jealous God wants to monopolize your worship and does not want you wasting time worshipping false Gods.

Envy - A Deadly Sin

Jealousy is a somewhat more acceptable emotion in Christianity, probably because it is considered justified for a spouse to be jealous. And, indeed, for God to be jealous.

On the other hand, envy is one of the seven deadly sins. The moral rationale is that envy leads to discontent and resentment, which in turn can trigger further sins like theft or even murder. A person who does not covet what other people have is not only contented and happy, but also less likely to commit crimes.